Based on analyzing 1,536 Google search results, we found no consistent correlation between keyword density and ranking. While relevant keyword usage remains important, our data suggests it’s not a primary ranking factor in Google’s algorithm. Instead, Google appears to prioritize factors like content quality, user experience, and relevance to user intent. The Average Keyword Density … Read more
Recent findings by SEO professionals suggest that Google has recalibrated its local search algorithm, placing more emphasis on a business’s listed hours of operation as a key ranking signal. According to Joy Hawkins of Sterling Sky, the trend became noticeable after the November 2023 core update, leading to businesses that appear as closed being significantly … Read more
![Click Through Rate (CTR) Is A Ranking Factor – [rank theory]](https://www.ranktheory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/email.jpg "Click Through Rate (CTR) Is A Ranking Factor – [rank theory]")
This article originally appeared in my Rank Theory newsletter where it was called “Google is Full Of Shit And If You Put Their PR On Your Shoulders And Help Carry That Message You Are Covered In The Shit They Are Full Of.” It just rolls off the tongue… Sign up here if you’re not on … Read more
Danny Sullivan, Google’s Search Liaison, confirmed on X that follower count is not used as a search ranking factor by Google Search. Sullivan said, “It is not,” when asked “Google now shows the number of followers on SERPs. What I’d like to know: Is follower count a ranking factor for social media profiles? So far … Read more
Yes, H1 tags are a Google ranking factor, but they are not as important as they used to be. In the early days of SEO, people would stuff their H1 tags with keywords to rank higher in search results. However, Google has since become more sophisticated and can now better understand the content of a … Read more
Does syndicated content affect organic search rankings? In some cases, syndicated content is viewed as spam. In others, it can outrank the original content. Yet syndication is a widely accepted practice in journalism and content marketing alike. But is it a ranking factor in search ranking algorithms? The Claim: Syndicated Content Is A Ranking Factor … Read more
Web developers often spend significant time optimizing page speed to improve user experience. In the past, Google gave higher rankings to faster-loading websites than slower ones. This leads to the question: Does page speed impact search rankings today? And if so, how important is it? In this chapter, we’ll examine the relationship between page speed … Read more
For years, many in the SEO industry operated under the assumption that making a website mobile-friendly would boost search rankings. However, a recent clarification from Google indicates that while mobile-friendliness is still recommended, it impacts search rankings differently than previously thought. Google has reiterated that no single “page experience” ranking factor like mobile-friendliness determines search … Read more
Recent updates to Google Search documentation have led to speculation about the importance of HTTPS and Page Experience for search rankings. While these factors don’t directly influence rankings on their own, Google clarifies they play a role as part of a ranking “system.” This chapter explores Google’s new perspective on HTTPS and Page Experience, unpacking … Read more
Inbound links, ordinarily considered a positive thing for SEO, may cause problems if too many come from the same domain. But are sitewide links to other domains a negative ranking factor? That’s what some people believe in SEO. Is there cause for concern if you are on the receiving end of sitewide links? We’ll answer … Read more
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